Jake O'Brien Likely to Resume Training in Early 2008

Undefeated UFC heavyweight Jake O’Brien (10-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) is progressing well after a July surgery and will likely return to full-time training in January or February of 2008, MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) was told over the weekend.

MMAjunkie.com spoke to Ken Pavia, O’Brien’s agent.

After scoring an upset of Heath Herring at UFC Fight Night 8 in January, O’Brien was scheduled to face Tom Murphy at July’s UFC 72 event. However, he pulled out of the event because of “stingers,” a painful nerve injury that originates in the spine. The sports injury usually appears in athletes from contact and combat sports, such as football, wrestling and mixed-martial arts.

O’Brien, who first developed the problem while wrestling for Purdue University, had surgery so a titanium rod could be implanted in his neck and cadaver discs in his spine.

Prior to the surgery, doctors told the 22-year-old O’Brien that the injuries might be career-ending. However, his doctors recently told him the outlook was much more positive and that he’s be able to continue his MMA career.

“We’ve learned not to underestimate Jake’s resolve and ability to heal,” Pavia said. “He’s much better now. He’s a battler, and he has a lot of heart.”

O’Brien is currently doing cardio-only training but will add striking to his workouts after the New Year.

Pavia was unsure when O’Brien may return to the Octagon, saying they’ll need to reevaluate once the workouts intensify.

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